The man, Steven Holzapple, was thrown from his 1978 Harley-Davidson FXE motorcycle due to mechanical failure, according to a Washington State Patrol spokesperson, trooper Rich Magnussen. The incident took place on Highway 2. Investigators determined in the wake of the accident that either the engine or transmission failed, causing the rider to lose control of his bike.

The head injury may have been less severe had Holzapple been wearing a helmet that met federal safety standards, however, the helmet probably helped save him from a more serious injury or even death. He was first transported to Central Washington Hospital in Wenatchee and then transported to Harborview Medical Center in Seattle by helicopter due to the seriousness of his head injuries.